Crumpler doubtful vs. 49ers

The Falcons weekly injury report was updated today indicating that Falcons tight end Alge Crumpler is doubtful for this weekend’s matchup against the San Francisco 49ers with knee and ankle injuries. Crumpler missed the Falcons Week 7 matchup against the New Orleans Saints due to the same injuries. It was the first time he missed any games due to injury in his entire career. In 2004, he sat out the final two games of the regular season so he could rest for the postseason. Crumpler has battled knee ailments all off-season long as he had surgery in April, and missed most of training camp due to the injury.

Also on the injury report were linebackers Stephen Nicholas (ankle), defensive tackle Montavious Stanley (knee), and offensive tackle Todd Weiner (knee). All three players were listed as questionable. Nicholas has missed the past two games with a high ankle sprain. Stanley suffered a knee injury in practice this past week. Weiner too has missed the last two games with a knee injury suffered against the Tennessee Titans. Both Nicholas and Weiner managed to have limited participation in practice all week long, which may mean both players could return next week.

Dwayne Blakley should get his second consecutive start in place of Crumpler, if he’s unable to go. Joey Harrington will return to the starting lineup, subbing for Leftwich. Nicholas will continue to be replaced by linebacker Travis Williams as a reserve behind starter Demorrio Williams. Tyson Clabo has filled in for Weiner the past two games at right tackle. And the Falcons signed Tim Anderson yesterday to bolster depth behind Trey Lewis in place of Stanley.